Plains Sunflower
Helianthus petiolaris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 35 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Plains sunflower is a cheerful annual native that produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall. This compact sunflower grows 1-4 feet tall and thrives in dry conditions with minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Plains Sunflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature means gaps in planting as plants die
- Can appear weedy or wild to traditional landscaping preferences
- May self-seed unpredictably creating scattered volunteers
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles during its long blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds in fall.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Plains Sunflower fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.